One Tank Trip for Wyoming Camping

Total mileage / average drive time:178 miles – 2 hours, 47 minutes

The vast landscape of Wyoming, unbroken by billboards and tall buildings, conveys a sense of timelessness. Nicknamed the Cowboy State, Wyoming is one of the last vestiges of the Old West, a label not many can still carry. What this state lacks in cities and infrastructure, it more than makes up for with in wild landscapes.

Cheyenne
We’re going to start our journey today in the capital, Cheyenne. Named after the Cheyenne Indians who once inhabited this area, Cheyenne had a humble, but hardly modest beginning when the Union Pacific laid tracks through the area during its push further west. From cattle barons to a military outpost, Cheyenne has seen more than its share of comings and goings and thousands of tourists flock to the state to marvel in Old West history. Annually, Cheyenne hosts an impressive array of festivals from Frontier Days celebrations to Greek and Wine Festivals. It seems that no matter when you visit, though, you’ll find plenty to satisfy you. Start your cultural exploration at the Nelson Museum of the West where you’ll find many cowboy and rodeo exhibits and artifacts as well as exhibits on several Native American tribes. For 71 years, the Governors Mansion has been home to several Wyoming Governors and their families, including the first female governor, elected in 1925. The halls of the mansion have seen a who’s-who list of U.S. presidents and ambassadors from around the world. You’ll find a fascinating display of original furnishings and a wealth of information from the Women’s Suffrage Movement to Wyoming Governors and their first ladies. Oh, and don’t forget to get your picture taken in front of the gigantic pair of cowboy boots, carefully painted by local artists to show the incredible history of Wyoming and Cheyenne.

Glendo102 miles – 1 hour, 36 minutes
From Cheyenne, hop on I-25N for 102 miles into Glendo, our next stop. If you’re interested in a little side trip, take a right at WY-87E to Guernesey where you’ll find the Oregon Trail Ruts Historic Site. As one of the primary routes of those emigrating to the West, the ruts of wagon wheels cut into solid rock can be found here. It’s a fascinating destination and an important bit of history. What our next stop lacks in population, it more than makes up for in intriguing history and exceptional beauty. Outdoor recreation opportunities are in endless supply in Glendo from camping and hiking to skiing and boating, there is more than enough to keep you working up a sweat. The Glendo State Park is a short drive from the city and is located in one of the state’s most historic areas. Native American artifacts are routinely found at the park and surrounding areas so keep your eyes peeled!

Casper76.4 miles – 1 hour, 11 minutes
From Glendo we return to I-25N for the 76 mile trip to Casper. If you have the time for another side trip, stop off at Douglas, a little less than midway to Casper and visit the Ayers Natural Bridge, a natural opening worn away in solid rock over the course of millions of years. Located roughly a mile south of the Oregon Trail, the Natural Bridge was often visited by emigrants on their travel west and is considered Wyoming’s first tourist attraction. Casper has earned the title as Wyoming’s Adventure Capital for good reason-- there seems to be no end to outdoor fun, history and cultural offerings. The nearby North Platte River is the place you want to be for fly fishing and unbelievable big game hunting or maybe you had a little skiing in mind? Head over to the Casper Nordic Center and Hogadon Downhill Ski Area the best in the area for both Nordic and Alpine skiing opportunities. For you history buffs who can’t get enough of Old West history, visit Fort Caspar, located on the Oregon/California/Mormon and Pony Express Trails. For those of you who don’t get rattled too easily, maybe a Casper the Friendly Ghost Tour might test your nerves of steel as you wander the alleys of downtown with a certified paranormal investigator who will introduce you to the many buildings in Casper alleged to be haunted. Did you just hear some chains rattle?